IMPHAL May 23: As a part of their continuing effort of extending development project under Red Shield Military Civic Action project for the welfare of the local populace in many parts of the state, Major General DS Hooda, AVSM, VSM, GOC, 57 Mountain Division, Leimakhong, today, handed over several peddle boats to be use for recreational activities at the biodiversity park of the Bio-Diversity and Wetland conservation Association located at Luwangsangbam Village in a formal function held at Luwangsangbam Makha Leikai, Imphal East, Manipur. The function was organized by the 9 Engineering Regiment (Basantar R).

N. Biren Singh, in his speech, expressed gratitude and highlighted the contributions and services rendered by the army for the nation and for Manipur in particular. He also emphasized on the need of cooperation from the civil societies for the betterment of the society.

Maj. Gen. D.S. Hooda in his presidential speech opined that there might have been some criticism, however, their primary goal and purpose is to safeguard the integrity, peace and harmony of the people from any external elements. He further added that the army under the Military Civic programme, has been involved in many welfare projects taken up in the state.

The Scientific Officer/EEW, Preshow MK. Shimrey stated that in connection with the development of biodiversity park, the government of Manipur has initiated various projects for reclamation of many water bodies in the state that are in danger of extinction in the near future. He said that in Manipur, there were 1000 known lakes in the past which have been reduced to only around 500lakes today within a short period of time. Thus, from these instances and in the present scenario of water scarcity and the apprehension of losing habitats of various endangered species, the conservation and preservation of water bodies has become a prime necessity in the state, he further added.

During the function, special gifts were exchanges among the dignitaries. A traditional martial arts performance was also presented by a local institute. The function was attended by various high ranking officials of the army, media persons from different local dailies as well as the local populace.